Western Ridge Trail - Search Nearby - Added by The Outbound Collective
This dirt trail is 9-miles out-and-back, but you can choose to turn around at whatever point you prefer. It makes for a great urban hike or run. Along the route, enjoy great views of the Potomac river.
This is primarily a dirt trail, which is pretty rare and fantastic for hiking and trail-running. Depending on where you exactly start, it's roughly 4.5 miles, so it's a pretty moderate hike/ run or almost 10miles if you do the out and back. There are also a ton of other paths, so you can easily add on extra miles if you want to or get on the Valley Trail if you want to make it a super loop.
Photos: Erin Johnson
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Nearby Adventures
Hike the Soapstone Valley Trail
2 Miles Round Trip
Hike the C&O Canal Towpath: Carderock to Great Falls
6.28 Miles Round Trip - 141 ft gain
Hike the Potomac Heritage Trail to Chain Bridge
8.4 Miles Round Trip - 300 ft gain
Hike Theodore Roosevelt Island
2 Miles Round Trip
Reviews
Overall rating:
Great Given Location
It was likely the nicest hike one can do inside the city, but that means it was next to a busy street and the river water was pretty dirty and smelled bad. It’s better to do it early morning. Did see some bucks! I recommend it if you really want a nature hike but can’t get out of the city.
1st Time
This was my first experience hiking/running through a trail like this. Very refreshing and full of adventure. I️ definitely recommend wearing proper shoes for this, it can get slippery with the rocks and wet leaves. Overall had a great time.
Enjoyable Hike Or Bike In The Town Center
I run or bike here every other week and have always loved this trail. It feels like you're out in the sticks despite being in the heart of the city. It's a safe neighborhood but some woman disappeared a few years back when she was running through the park...don't let it deter you...DC can be dangerous anywhere. It's a pretty place and an easy running/biking spot to hit after work on some idle Tuesday.
